For Janet Holman Gillin, helping others isn’t just a job. It’s who she is. Over the years, she has worked across child welfare, developmental disabilities, and job coaching—always with one goal in mind: to guide people toward independence.
From reuniting families in Kansas to helping close the Hissom Memorial Center in Oklahoma, Janet has made a real impact on countless lives. She’s a leader, a mother, and a true advocate for those who need it most.
We sat down with Janet to talk about her journey, the lessons she’s learned, and what continues to inspire her.
How do you define success and how long did it take you to find it?
I define success as helping someone live more independently than they thought possible. It’s not about titles or recognition—it’s about impact. I found success early on, honestly. The first time I saw a child safely reunite with their family, or helped someone with disabilities get their first job—that was it. That feeling never left me.
What are the qualities of a good entrepreneur?
A good entrepreneur listens more than they speak. They stay open-minded, adapt when things don’t go as planned, and always keep people at the center of their work. For me, it’s also about heart—you have to care deeply about what you’re doing, or it won’t last.
What challenges did you have to overcome at the beginning of your journey?
One of the hardest challenges was learning how to stay emotionally grounded. Working in child welfare meant seeing families at their lowest points, and that wasn’t easy. I had to learn how to be strong for others without losing myself in their pain. Later, helping close Hissom Memorial Center came with legal pushback and uncertainty. We were doing something that hadn’t been done before—moving people with disabilities into community homes—and that took courage, teamwork, and a lot of trust.
What’s one trend that excites you?
Technology. I’ve seen firsthand how it can expand access to training and services. In Tennessee, we developed one of the first online learning programs for developmental disability services. It opened so many doors—for people living in rural areas or those who needed flexible learning. That kind of innovation excites me because it meets people where they are.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Don’t worry so much. Trust that your passion will guide you. And don’t be afraid to speak up. Some of the best programs I helped create started with a conversation no one else wanted to have.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Making lists! I start every morning with a list of what needs to be done. It keeps me grounded and gives me little wins throughout the day when I get to check things off.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I step outside. I’m lucky to live in a quiet part of Oklahoma, and a walk or even a few deep breaths in the fresh air helps reset my mind. Sometimes I also just sit down and talk with one of my kids. They have a way of putting things in perspective.
Takeaway
Janet Holman Gillin’s story is a reminder that success isn’t about fame or fortune—it’s about impact. Through decades of service, she’s helped people find their voices, build their confidence, and live fuller lives. And she’s done it all while raising six children and staying grounded in kindness, courage, and community.
Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to find your purpose, Janet’s message is clear: help where you can, listen deeply, and never stop learning.
Want to read more about Janet Holman Gillen? Visit her website.
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